Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the first woman and first African to lead the World Trade Organization (WTO), has been re-elected for a second term as Director-General. The Nigerian-born economist and development expert, also a princess of the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Delta State, will continue her historic leadership of the global trade body.
Okonjo-Iweala: A Second Term for Transformative Leadership
Okonjo-Iweala’s re-election follows her announcement in September 2024 of her intention to pursue a second term. Ambassador Petter Ølberg of Norway, the chair of the WTO’s General Council, informed member nations that no other nominations were received before the November 8 deadline, clearing the way for her uncontested reappointment. Her first term, which began in March 2021, is set to conclude in August 2025, with her new tenure commencing thereafter.
Okonjo-Iweala: Achievements During the First Term
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala’s tenure as Director-General has been marked by significant challenges and accomplishments. She assumed office during a period of global uncertainty exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, economic disruptions, and rising trade tensions between major economies. Under her leadership, the WTO:
- Facilitated Global Vaccine Equity: Played a key role in advancing intellectual property waivers for COVID-19 vaccines, ensuring greater access for developing nations.
- Revitalized Multilateralism: Championed reforms to modernize the WTO and address concerns over its relevance in the evolving global trade landscape.
- Advanced Trade Dispute Settlements: Worked to restore the WTO’s Appellate Body, a critical component of its dispute resolution mechanism, which had been paralyzed since 2019.
- Addressed Climate and Sustainability Goals: Integrated climate-related trade policies into WTO agendas, promoting green trade and sustainability practices.
The Path Ahead
As Okonjo-Iweala prepares for her second term, her leadership is expected to focus on further reforms to strengthen the WTO. Key areas of interest include:
- Digital Trade Regulation: Establishing comprehensive rules for e-commerce and digital trade to meet the demands of a rapidly digitizing economy.
- Trade Inclusion: Ensuring that least-developed countries (LDCs) and small economies benefit equitably from global trade opportunities.
- Geopolitical Neutrality: Navigating complex trade disputes and geopolitical tensions, particularly between the U.S. and China.
- Sustainability: Expanding climate-conscious trade policies and supporting the transition to green economies.
A Historic Figure
Okonjo-Iweala, 70, brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served twice as Nigeria’s Finance Minister and as a Managing Director of the World Bank. Her tenure at the WTO is historic not only for breaking gender and regional barriers but also for her ability to command respect and foster consensus among diverse stakeholders.
A Symbol of Global Progress
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala’s re-election underscores confidence in her leadership and the transformative role she has played at the WTO. It also highlights the growing recognition of African and female leaders on the global stage, marking a significant moment in international governance. Her continued leadership promises to shape a fairer, more inclusive, and sustainable global trade system.
